EMDR Therapists in Lehi, UT

Photo of Olivia Fullmer, MS, CMHC, Counselor
Olivia Fullmer
Counselor, MS, CMHC
Verified Verified
Lehi, UT 84043
I specialize in treatment with eating disorders, trauma, and addictions and is passionate about my work including creative therapy, DBT, and EMDR.
I work with diverse populations with a person-centered approach for individuals to increase their self-awareness and understanding of how they are able to improve their overall well-being, relationships, and functioning lifestyle.
I specialize in treatment with eating disorders, trauma, and addictions and is passionate about my work including creative therapy, DBT, and EMDR.
I work with diverse populations with a person-centered approach for individuals to increase their self-awareness and understanding of how they are able to improve their overall well-being, relationships, and functioning lifestyle.
(801) 797-2941 View (801) 797-2941
Photo of Jennifer Oxford, CMHC, LPC, Counselor
Jennifer Oxford
Counselor, CMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lehi, UT 84043  (Online Only)
Trained in EMDR, ART, IFS.
My counseling philosophy is focused on helping individuals as they go through adversity to continue their personal growth through compassionate therapy. I am excited to work with individuals who seek to increase emotional regulation, heal from adversity, and desire to improve their relationships with themselves and others. I firmly believe in helping people navigate through issues and circumstances to reach their goals in all aspects of their lives. Through strengths and evidence-based therapies, I will cheer and guide individuals to self-empowerment and increased quality of life.
Trained in EMDR, ART, IFS.
My counseling philosophy is focused on helping individuals as they go through adversity to continue their personal growth through compassionate therapy. I am excited to work with individuals who seek to increase emotional regulation, heal from adversity, and desire to improve their relationships with themselves and others. I firmly believe in helping people navigate through issues and circumstances to reach their goals in all aspects of their lives. Through strengths and evidence-based therapies, I will cheer and guide individuals to self-empowerment and increased quality of life.
(469) 654-4752 View (469) 654-4752
Photo of Nathan Black, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nathan Black
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
Lehi, UT 84043
Nathan Black is a Certified Social Worker (CSW) therapist. He received his Master of Social Work and a Bachelor of Science- Family Studies emphasis from Utah Valley University. He enjoys works with a wide variety of age groups and populations. Nathan specializes in working with depression, anxiety and PTSD. Nathan enjoys helping clients overcome traumatic experiences that have negatively impacted them in order to improve their well-being now. Primarily, he enjoys implementing Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy to help clients overcome negative effects of trauma or other negative experiences.
Nathan Black is a Certified Social Worker (CSW) therapist. He received his Master of Social Work and a Bachelor of Science- Family Studies emphasis from Utah Valley University. He enjoys works with a wide variety of age groups and populations. Nathan specializes in working with depression, anxiety and PTSD. Nathan enjoys helping clients overcome traumatic experiences that have negatively impacted them in order to improve their well-being now. Primarily, he enjoys implementing Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy to help clients overcome negative effects of trauma or other negative experiences.
(385) 644-1390 View (385) 644-1390
Photo of Megan Rogers, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Megan Rogers
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lehi, UT 84043
Waitlist for new clients
My approach is heavily influenced by models such as Internal Family Systems (IFS), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Our most frustrating and painful patterns are often rooted in past experiences that continue to impact us, whether consciously or subconsciously. I strongly believe if you are feeling stuck, it’s not random and there is nothing wrong with you. Many clients have come to me because they find themselves unable to make significant changes despite past therapeutic work and education or they feel powerless in their life and/or relationships. I focus on creating an emotionally safe environment where we explore these experiences and behaviors with curiosity.
My approach is heavily influenced by models such as Internal Family Systems (IFS), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Our most frustrating and painful patterns are often rooted in past experiences that continue to impact us, whether consciously or subconsciously. I strongly believe if you are feeling stuck, it’s not random and there is nothing wrong with you. Many clients have come to me because they find themselves unable to make significant changes despite past therapeutic work and education or they feel powerless in their life and/or relationships. I focus on creating an emotionally safe environment where we explore these experiences and behaviors with curiosity.
(801) 666-2807 View (801) 666-2807
Photo of Carole Kamradt, MSW, LCSW, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carole Kamradt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lehi, UT 84043
As a trauma informed therapist, I use a blend of cognitive, behavioral and psychodynamic modalities, plus EMDR and IFS to meet the specific needs and goals of each client.
I know that it is not easy facing life's issues. Talking about them and learning to manage life differently can increase our ability to live happy, more productive lives. My person-oriented style of counseling helps to build the necessary skills one needs for more satisfying relationships and life experiences. I would be grateful to be included in your healing process. I especially love to help improve the physical connection in couples, and help overcome and heal unhealthy cultural or emotional traumas that may be inhibiting the ability to have a fulfilling sexual relationship.
As a trauma informed therapist, I use a blend of cognitive, behavioral and psychodynamic modalities, plus EMDR and IFS to meet the specific needs and goals of each client.
I know that it is not easy facing life's issues. Talking about them and learning to manage life differently can increase our ability to live happy, more productive lives. My person-oriented style of counseling helps to build the necessary skills one needs for more satisfying relationships and life experiences. I would be grateful to be included in your healing process. I especially love to help improve the physical connection in couples, and help overcome and heal unhealthy cultural or emotional traumas that may be inhibiting the ability to have a fulfilling sexual relationship.
(801) 658-9854 x117 View (801) 658-9854 x117
Photo of Adrienne Randall - Adrienne Randall , LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adrienne Randall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lehi, UT 84043
I utilize EMDR which is a powerful tool used in the therapeutic experience to reduce symptoms while targeting root causes.
Many people are finding that they are facing challenges that were unexpected. For many of us, continuing on without changing is likely to result in developing meaningless habits, alcohol/substance abuse, ignoring work/relationships, or engaging in self-sabotaging behaviors. Often times there are internal barriers, patterns, or ways of thinking that prevent us from making the changes in our lives. Through understanding our defenses and patterns of behavior, I believe therapy can help to assist in uncovering hope, insight, and develop new skills so you may move forward with passion and purpose.
I utilize EMDR which is a powerful tool used in the therapeutic experience to reduce symptoms while targeting root causes.
Many people are finding that they are facing challenges that were unexpected. For many of us, continuing on without changing is likely to result in developing meaningless habits, alcohol/substance abuse, ignoring work/relationships, or engaging in self-sabotaging behaviors. Often times there are internal barriers, patterns, or ways of thinking that prevent us from making the changes in our lives. Through understanding our defenses and patterns of behavior, I believe therapy can help to assist in uncovering hope, insight, and develop new skills so you may move forward with passion and purpose.
(385) 396-5819 View (385) 396-5819
Photo of Laura Vanderhoff, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Vanderhoff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lehi, UT 84043
I am EMDR trained and have completed several trainings in DBT, Sand Tray Therapy, Play Therapy, IFS, and Suicide Prevention.
I believe the power to heal and understand is within our reach, sometimes we just need a reminder of our potential. I have experience working with all ages from school age to adult. I believe in empowering others by helping them gain confidence in themselves through knowledge and skill building so they have the power and courage to conquer their challenges.
I am EMDR trained and have completed several trainings in DBT, Sand Tray Therapy, Play Therapy, IFS, and Suicide Prevention.
I believe the power to heal and understand is within our reach, sometimes we just need a reminder of our potential. I have experience working with all ages from school age to adult. I believe in empowering others by helping them gain confidence in themselves through knowledge and skill building so they have the power and courage to conquer their challenges.
(801) 823-4968 View (801) 823-4968
Photo of Alexa Sharpe, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alexa Sharpe
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lehi, UT 84043
Hey there! I'm so glad you found me! I am a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in panic, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, PTSD, betrayal trauma, and sex-specific treatment. I am certified in EMDR, NOJOS (network of juveniles offending sexually) credentialed, and completed trainings for EFT (emotionally focused treatment) and trauma-informed care. My experience with No More Victims has also allowed me experience with victims of sexual abuse.
Hey there! I'm so glad you found me! I am a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in panic, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, PTSD, betrayal trauma, and sex-specific treatment. I am certified in EMDR, NOJOS (network of juveniles offending sexually) credentialed, and completed trainings for EFT (emotionally focused treatment) and trauma-informed care. My experience with No More Victims has also allowed me experience with victims of sexual abuse.
(385) 432-8467 View (385) 432-8467
Photo of Kristin Wu, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristin Wu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lehi, UT 84043
These include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical-Behavioral Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Structural Family Therapy.
In life, individuals encounter a multitude of challenges that may require more extensive support than what friends and family can offer. These challenges do not signify brokenness but rather the need for professional guidance and trust to navigate difficult times. Kristin, is here to collaborate with you, aiding in the discovery of your strengths and the development of new tools to overcome these obstacles.
These include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical-Behavioral Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Structural Family Therapy.
In life, individuals encounter a multitude of challenges that may require more extensive support than what friends and family can offer. These challenges do not signify brokenness but rather the need for professional guidance and trust to navigate difficult times. Kristin, is here to collaborate with you, aiding in the discovery of your strengths and the development of new tools to overcome these obstacles.
(385) 304-4758 View (385) 304-4758
Photo of Stephanie Nixon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Nixon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lehi, UT 84043
I am interested in helping my clients achieve their goals of better mental and emotional health. I enjoy the process of exploring barriers to change, teaching concepts and skills, and helping my clients move towards healing and growth. I am a graduate of Brigham Young University Master of Social Work program and am EMDR trained.
I am interested in helping my clients achieve their goals of better mental and emotional health. I enjoy the process of exploring barriers to change, teaching concepts and skills, and helping my clients move towards healing and growth. I am a graduate of Brigham Young University Master of Social Work program and am EMDR trained.
(801) 447-1966 View (801) 447-1966
Photo of Jennifer C MacArthur, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer C MacArthur
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lehi, UT 84043
I am also trained in EMDR and use this to work with individuals on their trauma when they are ready.
Accepting new clients! Be yourself with me- My clients describe me as accepting, calming and insightful. I have extensive experience working with teens, adults, couples and LGTBQ+. We know how hard it is to struggle with mental health. If you experienced trauma as a child, are someone who's social anxiety makes it hard to make friends, or someone who struggles to get out of bed due to feeling sad or overwhelmed, we can help! Together, we can explore just about any life problem, with goals of increasing your self-confidence, improving connection with your partner/friends, and experiencing greater levels of happiness & acceptance.
I am also trained in EMDR and use this to work with individuals on their trauma when they are ready.
Accepting new clients! Be yourself with me- My clients describe me as accepting, calming and insightful. I have extensive experience working with teens, adults, couples and LGTBQ+. We know how hard it is to struggle with mental health. If you experienced trauma as a child, are someone who's social anxiety makes it hard to make friends, or someone who struggles to get out of bed due to feeling sad or overwhelmed, we can help! Together, we can explore just about any life problem, with goals of increasing your self-confidence, improving connection with your partner/friends, and experiencing greater levels of happiness & acceptance.
(801) 360-1542 View (801) 360-1542
Photo of Ben Reaves, CMHC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ben Reaves
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CMHC
Verified Verified
Lehi, UT 84043
Ben has over 20 years of experience working in the mental health space. He has worked with substance abuse programs at the state level, in psychiatric hospitals, and most recently at the Utah State Prison. Ben works with children, teens, and adults and uses a variety of skills and techniques to help the people he meets with be the best they can be. Some of his specialties include: CPT, DBT, EMDR, ACT, CBT, Polyvagal Therapy, and Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy. When Ben isn't working, he enjoys spending time with his wife and children.
Ben has over 20 years of experience working in the mental health space. He has worked with substance abuse programs at the state level, in psychiatric hospitals, and most recently at the Utah State Prison. Ben works with children, teens, and adults and uses a variety of skills and techniques to help the people he meets with be the best they can be. Some of his specialties include: CPT, DBT, EMDR, ACT, CBT, Polyvagal Therapy, and Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy. When Ben isn't working, he enjoys spending time with his wife and children.
(385) 526-2571 View (385) 526-2571
Photo of Candas Elder, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Candas Elder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lehi, UT 84043
These modalities include: Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Mindfulness.
Candas Elder (CSW) has been working to enrich the lives of individuals since 2013. Through her comprehensive academic masters of social work program, Candas gained the knowledge and skills she has used to help hundreds of clients achieve their goals. Candas works with people through the lifespan. She loves to witness the positive progress of any client no matter their age: child, adolescent, or adult.
These modalities include: Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Mindfulness.
Candas Elder (CSW) has been working to enrich the lives of individuals since 2013. Through her comprehensive academic masters of social work program, Candas gained the knowledge and skills she has used to help hundreds of clients achieve their goals. Candas works with people through the lifespan. She loves to witness the positive progress of any client no matter their age: child, adolescent, or adult.
(385) 899-2715 View (385) 899-2715
Photo of Marianne Vaughn, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marianne Vaughn
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lehi, UT 84043
I an EMDR-trained to facilitate healing from adverse experiences in a safe, compassionate environment.
Life presents challenges that can feel overwhelming and painful. You may need help moving through anxiety, depression, relational struggles, or loss. My approach is compassionate, authentic, and non-judgmental. I will join you to explore, recognize, and magnify your strengths to create positive and lasting change. I believe in the value of healthy, supportive relationships for ideal individual, couple and family functioning.
I an EMDR-trained to facilitate healing from adverse experiences in a safe, compassionate environment.
Life presents challenges that can feel overwhelming and painful. You may need help moving through anxiety, depression, relational struggles, or loss. My approach is compassionate, authentic, and non-judgmental. I will join you to explore, recognize, and magnify your strengths to create positive and lasting change. I believe in the value of healthy, supportive relationships for ideal individual, couple and family functioning.
(385) 374-1142 View (385) 374-1142
Photo of Laurie M Elkins, LCSW, CFRC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laurie M Elkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CFRC
Verified Verified
Lehi, UT 84043
She specializes in CBT, ACT, EMDR, IFS, CPT, Mindfulness, Somatic Experiencing, and EFT for couples; with ages 21 and beyond—individuals, couples, and with Active-Duty Military/Veterans, and First Responders.
Laurie Elkins is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, with Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees from Brigham Young University. She has found it a privilege to work with individuals and families in our community who struggle with various mental/physical health, and relationships. She is grateful for the opportunities she has had working with military members, in the Air Force mental health wing—moving with them through healing—from PTSD, trauma, relationships and other life challenges. To expand on this, she is a Certified First Responder Counselor.
She specializes in CBT, ACT, EMDR, IFS, CPT, Mindfulness, Somatic Experiencing, and EFT for couples; with ages 21 and beyond—individuals, couples, and with Active-Duty Military/Veterans, and First Responders.
Laurie Elkins is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, with Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees from Brigham Young University. She has found it a privilege to work with individuals and families in our community who struggle with various mental/physical health, and relationships. She is grateful for the opportunities she has had working with military members, in the Air Force mental health wing—moving with them through healing—from PTSD, trauma, relationships and other life challenges. To expand on this, she is a Certified First Responder Counselor.
(385) 481-6533 View (385) 481-6533
Photo of Alisha Schlabaugh, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alisha Schlabaugh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lehi, UT 84043
Alisha has received training in suicide risk prevention, attachment theory, Gottman, couples therapy, and she is EMDR trained.
Alisha Schlabaugh is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Utah who has been practicing since 2021. She received her undergraduate and graduate degrees from Utah Valley University. Alisha believes that healing comes in many forms, client-centered talk therapy being one of them. She has a passion for holistic health and healing the whole person, mind, body, and soul. Alisha says that one of the most precious parts of working in the mental health field is sitting with people in their most vulnerable moments and feels privileged to be a part of their healing journey.
Alisha has received training in suicide risk prevention, attachment theory, Gottman, couples therapy, and she is EMDR trained.
Alisha Schlabaugh is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Utah who has been practicing since 2021. She received her undergraduate and graduate degrees from Utah Valley University. Alisha believes that healing comes in many forms, client-centered talk therapy being one of them. She has a passion for holistic health and healing the whole person, mind, body, and soul. Alisha says that one of the most precious parts of working in the mental health field is sitting with people in their most vulnerable moments and feels privileged to be a part of their healing journey.
(385) 304-4705 View (385) 304-4705
Photo of Kim Millett, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kim Millett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lehi, UT 84043
I am trained in EMDR, ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy), IFS (Internal Family Systems), and Sensate Focus Sex therapy to treat trauma.
Do you feel hurt, stuck, or unseen in your marriage? So many people do. I believe the couple relationships can be the most painful or the most joyful part of life. It is my passion to bring couples to the joyful side of marriage. A great relationship doesn't take special people; it takes learning how to treat each other special. I believe couples can overcome almost every injury. I am trained to help couples heal infidelity, compulsive porn use, difficult sexual dynamics, and childhood trauma. I am Gottman level 2 trained and EFT informed, but my favorite couple’s approach is PACT therapy by Stan Tatkin.
I am trained in EMDR, ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy), IFS (Internal Family Systems), and Sensate Focus Sex therapy to treat trauma.
Do you feel hurt, stuck, or unseen in your marriage? So many people do. I believe the couple relationships can be the most painful or the most joyful part of life. It is my passion to bring couples to the joyful side of marriage. A great relationship doesn't take special people; it takes learning how to treat each other special. I believe couples can overcome almost every injury. I am trained to help couples heal infidelity, compulsive porn use, difficult sexual dynamics, and childhood trauma. I am Gottman level 2 trained and EFT informed, but my favorite couple’s approach is PACT therapy by Stan Tatkin.
(801) 657-3675 View (801) 657-3675
Photo of Susan Barrus, MA, CMHC, Counselor
Susan Barrus
Counselor, MA, CMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lehi, UT 84043
I am passionate about women’s issues and am trained in perinatal mental health, postpartum mood disorders, trauma, and EMDR, eating disorders, and autism spectrum disorders.
I love helping people, analogies, and hiking up mountains. Life sometimes gives us metaphorical mountains we wouldn’t choose. If you are facing such a mountain, the brave next step is finding someone to help navigate the hard parts, and help you find your strength. I know you can do it and I know there is beauty and growth in the journey. I’m honored to “hike” with you in a safe, accepting, collaborative partnership. You have it in you to overcome hardships and accomplish what you most want. I use a person-centered, trauma- and developmentally-informed approach.
I am passionate about women’s issues and am trained in perinatal mental health, postpartum mood disorders, trauma, and EMDR, eating disorders, and autism spectrum disorders.
I love helping people, analogies, and hiking up mountains. Life sometimes gives us metaphorical mountains we wouldn’t choose. If you are facing such a mountain, the brave next step is finding someone to help navigate the hard parts, and help you find your strength. I know you can do it and I know there is beauty and growth in the journey. I’m honored to “hike” with you in a safe, accepting, collaborative partnership. You have it in you to overcome hardships and accomplish what you most want. I use a person-centered, trauma- and developmentally-informed approach.
(385) 255-7252 View (385) 255-7252
Photo of Stephanie Hunt, LMHC, Counselor
Stephanie Hunt
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Lehi, UT 84043
Stephanie Hunt is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Utah who has been practicing since 2015. Stephanie enjoys providing EMDR therapy to individuals who have experienced trauma. She understands how trauma and mental health disorders can contribute to substance abuse and substance dependence. Stephanie has several years of experience helping individuals work through trauma and find healthier coping skills to substitute destructive coping such as substance use. Outside of work, Stephanie enjoys going to the gym, being outdoors, and spending time with family.
Stephanie Hunt is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Utah who has been practicing since 2015. Stephanie enjoys providing EMDR therapy to individuals who have experienced trauma. She understands how trauma and mental health disorders can contribute to substance abuse and substance dependence. Stephanie has several years of experience helping individuals work through trauma and find healthier coping skills to substitute destructive coping such as substance use. Outside of work, Stephanie enjoys going to the gym, being outdoors, and spending time with family.
(385) 481-7377 View (385) 481-7377
Photo of Brooke Bradley Bumgardner, CMHC, RPT, NCC, Counselor
Brooke Bradley Bumgardner
Counselor, CMHC, RPT, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lehi, UT 84043
I am EMDR trained and a Registered Play Therapist.
I became a therapist because I love connecting with others. I enjoy working with adults, teens, kids, parents, couples, and families. We all go through times in our life where we need help getting unstuck and moving through the feelings of anxiety and depression that hold us back. Whether it is changes in your life, grief, trauma, anxiety or depression, I want to help you find healing. As a Clinical Mental Health Therapist, I have the tools to help you get insight, new awareness and learn skills to help you make the changes you want and get closer to your goals.
I am EMDR trained and a Registered Play Therapist.
I became a therapist because I love connecting with others. I enjoy working with adults, teens, kids, parents, couples, and families. We all go through times in our life where we need help getting unstuck and moving through the feelings of anxiety and depression that hold us back. Whether it is changes in your life, grief, trauma, anxiety or depression, I want to help you find healing. As a Clinical Mental Health Therapist, I have the tools to help you get insight, new awareness and learn skills to help you make the changes you want and get closer to your goals.
(385) 336-0140 View (385) 336-0140
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EMDR Therapists

Who is EMDR for?

EMDR was initially developed as a treatment for individuals with Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), for whom memories of a deeply distressing experience can be inadvertently triggered by random everyday events. The procedure has since been applied in the treatment of many other conditions. For example, it is used by some therapists to treat anxiety disorders including panic and phobias, depression, dissociative disorders, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and some personality disorders. It is suitable for adolescents and adults.

Why do people need EMDR?

People need EMDR as a way to manage distressing memories that in some way hamper the ability to function in the present. The procedure is believed to target the way memories are stored in the brain. Evidence indicates that past disturbing experiences cause ongoing distress because they were not adequately processed, and when such memories are triggered in the present, they are accompanied by all the emotions, thoughts, and physical sensations as the initial experience.

What problems does EMDR treat?

First and foremost, EMDR is intended as a treatment for PTSD, to defuse distressing memories that intrude on and impair everyday functioning. It is also often used to help those who are subject to panic attacks, phobias, and other forms of anxiety. In addition, EMDR has been used to treat individuals with depression, eating disorders, and personality disorders.

What happens in EMDR therapy?

First the therapist takes an individual’s history, and then the therapist and client decide which distressing experience(s) will be the target(s) of the exercise, delivered via a side-to-side visual stimulus requiring lateral eye movements. The client will be asked to activate thoughts, feelings, and any body sensations related to the troubling experience. The eye movements are said to reduce the emotional charge of the memory, so that the experience can then be safely discussed with the therapist and digested, minimizing its ability to trigger anxiety.